Love Hotel Hill

Saturday 19th January

Spent the morning wandering around the district of Shibuya known as Love Hotel Hill. Yes it is exactly as it sounds.. Due to the fact that a number of Japanese households are very large, accommodating all the extended family, there is little chance for any privacy. As a result a number of hotels have sprung up offering 'rests' for a maximum of a three hour stay day or for the night. Caroline and I found much amusement in the signs, however couldn't quite pluck up the courage to venture inside any to take a look (although according to the guide book one can do!)

Stopped off at a local Japanese fast-food restaurant for a bowl of noodle soup - very filling, before heading to Asakusa to visit the Kannon Temple. The temple is beautiful and one of the oldest surviving temples in Japan (founded in the 7th century, although had to be rebuilt following the earthquakes).

Just outside the temple there was a large crowd gathered around an incense bowl where the Japanese were wafting the smoke over each other and rubbing it in their hair. I have since discovered that the smoke (aka the breath of gods) is known for is curative powers.

Also visited the Asakusa Jingo Shinto Shrine, the pagoda (2nd highest in Japan) and wandered around the market stalls (Nakamisi-Dori district). Had my first sweet saki. Although it warmed me up it was too sweet even for me so won't be having a coconut based one again in a hurry. Coincidentally I also saw the only other two backpackers off my entire flight here taking in the sights of Asakusa.

Next stop was Ginza, the shopping district with all the exclusive department stalls (known as the place where silver is minted). One of the attractions of the area is allegedly the Tokyo International Forum, an impressive glass building which resembles a ship. Or so they say! After what felt an age trying to locate it, due to Japan having very few street names, we finally came across it and wish we hadn't bothered. So for any of you planning to visit Japan a tip from me - leave this one out as it isn't worth it.

After all the excitement for the day we headed back for munchies and movies